The Best Perfumes for Women

Having a signature scent can boost your confidence, draw people in, and keep you smelling fantastic all day. A great perfume isn't always easy to come by, and oftentimes you'll get stuck with a scent that doesn't quite match your preferences or personality. Whether you like something more mature, feminine, subtle, floral, or fruity, there is a perfume out there for you. And if you're looking for a signature scent of your own, here are five of the best tried-and-true options that women everywhere can't get enough of.
Coach Signature Eau De Parfum
The beloved perfume by a coveted brand
Founded over 70 years ago in New York, Coach has long been known for creating highly covetable designer bags and accessories, but their signature perfume is also one of the most loved of all time. It’s a classic and timeless scent that won’t go out of style. Perfect for a sophisticated and modern woman’s daily use, this perfume combines notes of citrus, woodsy, and floral elements. Specifically, it blends orange, jasmine, cedarwood, vanilla, and other decadent aromas for an irresistible eau de parfum you’ll use for years to come. A little goes a long way with this luscious scent, making the designer price tag feel a lot more worthwhile.
Pros:
- Modern and refined scent
- Brand known for quality and luxury
- Lasts all day
Cons:
- High price tag
- Scent may feel too “old” for younger users
Lucky You by Lucky Brand
A sweet fragrance with an everyday price
Lucky Brand is long trusted as a great designer, and this classic perfume is a perfect pick for younger women or anyone looking for a more affordable designer perfume. It’s a warm, uplifting fragrance that won’t overwhelm you with heavy scents. Mixing aromas of red grapefruit, blue poppy, jasmine, green leaves, and sandalwood musk, this divine perfume is a sure hit. The bottle is a pretty touch to complement the lovely scents inside. This perfume has been a favorite of many for years, and is an excellent choice for those who prefer a brighter, more fruity palette.
Pros:
- Great price
- Well-respected brand
- Youthful, fresh fragrance
- Not overpowering
Cons:
- Scent may dissipate more quickly
Marc Jacobs Daisy
A classic scent in a beautifully-designed bottle
Another beloved perfume by a famous designer, this Marc Jacobs perfume has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite for women everywhere. The packaging is classic and notable, with a daisy-adorned cap and beautiful rounded bottle. As for the scent, it’s a stunning, feminine blend of floral, fruity, and woodsy notes. The top notes are fresh wild berries, followed by heart notes of violet and jasmine and a base of sandalwood. Altogether, this makes for a fantastic and sophisticated blend of aromas and a perfume you’ll love putting on every day.
Pros:
- Trusted designer and perfume
- Beautiful bottle
- Long-lasting scent
- Feminine but not overpowering
Cons:
- Higher cost
- Smell may change throughout the day
Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue
A sexy blend that never goes out of style
Said to evoke the seductive nature of a Mediterranean woman, this classic and well-known perfume is sure to become a favorite. The bottle shape is quintessential of the product; a unique rectangular design that’s made of strong glass. The scent itself is the perfect blend of lively, fresh, and sensual. With top notes of cedar and apple, heart notes of bamboo, jasmine, and rose, and base notes of complex citron wood and amber, this is a stunning and mature scent you’re unlikely to forget.
Pros:
- Beloved by many for many years
- Respected perfume brand
- No cloying scent
- Beautiful bottle and packaging
- Perfect gift
Cons:
- Not returnable
Happy by Clinique
A lively and fruity designer option.
This tried and true perfume was introduced over two decades ago and has been loved by many ever since. It’s a perfect daytime, outdoorsy, uplifting option for those who prefer a brighter scent palette. The packaging and perfume are aptly named, for the beautiful bottle and scent are likely to cause plenty of happiness for the wearer and all those they come across. This blend has citrus notes of grapefruit and bergamot alongside soft, complex aromas of Hawaiian wedding flower and mimosa.
Pros:
- Fresh and versatile scent
- Long reputation of excellence
- Perfectly floral and citrusy
- Long-lasting but subtle
Cons:
- Less strong scent
- Better for daytime than nighttime
Frequently Asked Questions
What does EDP mean?
EDP stands for eau de parfum, which is lighter than a traditional perfume, with an 8-15% concentration. This means it can last less time than a perfume, but is also less expensive. Both are good options, depending on your budget, scent preference, and personal use.
How do I choose the right perfume?
Consider when you like to wear perfume, how much you like to use, and what scent profiles you prefer. Some perfumes will last longer than others, some are better suited for day or night use, and all will have unique scents. If you prefer something more mature or feminine, there are plenty of options, just as there are lighter and brighter options as well.